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Fenugreek (also known as Greek Hay and Fenigreek), is
an herb that is commonly found growing in the Mediterranean region of
the world. While the seeds and leaves are primarily used as a culinary
spice, it is also used to treat a variety of health problems in Egypt,
Greece, Italy, and South Asia.
Fenugreek seeds have been found to contain protein, vitamin C, niacin,
potassium, and diosgenin (which is a compound that has properties
similar to estrogen). Other active constituents in fenugreek are
alkaloids, lysine and L-tryptophan, as well as steroidal saponins (diosgenin,
yamogenin, tigogenin, and neotigogenin).
What are the Benefits of Fenugreek?
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Due to its estrogen-like properties, fenugreek has been found to help
increase libido and lessen the effect of hot flashes and mood
fluctuations that are common symptoms of menopause and PMS. In India and
China it has also been used to treat arthritis, asthma, bronchitis,
improve digestion, maintain a healthy metabolism, increase libido and
male potency, cure skin problems (wounds, rashes and boils), treat sore
throat, and cure acid reflux. Fenugreek also has a long history of use
for the treatment of reproductive disorders, to induce labor, to treat
hormonal disorders, to help with breast enlargement, and to reduce
menstrual pain. Recent studies have shown that Fenugreek helps lower
blood glucose and cholestrol levels, and may be an effective treatment
for both type 1 and 2 diabetes. It is also being studied for its
cardiovascular benefits.
Uses of Fenugreek
Home Remedy for Balancing Cholesterol
Studies have found people who took 2 ounces (56g) of fenugreek seed each
day had significantly (around 14 percent) lower cholesterol levels after
24 weeks, and had lowered their risk of heart attack by more than 25
percent. Therefore, a recommended remedy for lowering cholesterol is to
take 2 ounces of seeds throughout the day. The seeds can be sprinkled
onto prepared food, or they can be consumed with water if they are in
capsule form.
Treating Diabetes and Lowering Blood Sugar Levels
Studies have shown that participants with type 2 diabetes had
significantly lower blood sugar levels after eating fenugreek.
Therefore, a recommended home remedy for treating Type 2 diabetes is to
consume 500mg of fenugreek twice daily.
Herbal Cure for Skin Inflammation
Research has shown that Fenugreek is an effective topical treatment for
skin problems such as abscesses, boils, burns, eczema, and gout.
Therefore, a simple skin inflammation remedy is the following:
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Take a spoonful of fenugreek and grind it into a powder.
Mix the ground powder with warm water.
Take a simple piece of clean cloth and soak it into the mixture.
Apply the soaked cloth directly onto the affected skin as a poultice.
Natural Cure for Heartburn and Acid Reflux
Fenugreek seeds contain a lot of mucilage, which helps sooth
gastrointestinal inflammation by coating the lining of the stomach and
intestine. Therefore, for an effective remedy against heartburn or Acid
Reflux, simply sprinkle 1 teaspoon of fenugreek seeds onto your food.
Another option is to take one teaspoon of seeds and swallow them with
water or juice before any meal.
Home Remedy for Fever
The Fenugreek herb has been known to help reduce fever when taken with
lemon and honey, since it nourishes the body during an illness.
Therefore, to treat a fever, simply consume one to two teaspoons of
Fenugreek seeds three times a day along with an herbal tea (such as
green tea) with a teaspoon of honey and lemon juice. Some health food
stores also sell herbal Fenugreek teas, which can be used instead of the
green tea.
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What are the Side Effects of Fenugreek?
While Fenugreek is generally considered to be safe when used moderately,
there have been reports of a few minor side-effects. Nausea is one
common side effect, while other people have reported gastrointestinal
discomfort (diarrhea and/or gas). Also, when using this herb topically
on the skin, it is important to watch out for skin irritations and
rashes.
Fenugreek use during pregnancy is not recommended, since it has the
potential to induce labor. If you are pregnant and wish to take it, you
should do so only after consultation with your doctor.
If you are currently taking any oral medications, you should always use
this herb at least 2 hours before or after these drugs. This is
important since Fenugreek fiber has the potential to interfere with the
absorption of oral medications due to its mucilaginous fiber (which
gives it a moist and sticky texture). |